The Lengertz Cultural Award was established in the 1960s by author and antiquarian bookseller William Lengertz. According to his will, the awards — this year amounting to SEK 50,000 each — are to be given to a “highly deserving, active Scanian artist” and to an author who, during the previous year, has published a book about the region of Skåne or its people and their achievements.
The art prize is awarded to David Nilson for his inventive sculptures in modern materials and recognizable forms that transport the viewer into dreamlike situations – a powerful and gifted artistic expression.
The literature prize goes to Ingrid Sommar for her book Designaktivisten, which portrays Annika Heijkenskjöld, founder of Form/Design Center beneath Malmö Stadion in the 1960s. For a decade, the space showcased contemporary form and design before the center moved to its current location at Lilla Torg. Heijkenskjöld, a mother of five, was also a passionate design activist and driving force in shaping the objects around us. Through Sommar’s book, we are invited to revisit a vital era of Swedish modernism.
The Lengertz Cultural Award is administered by the Skåne Heritage Federation, which appoints the recipients. This year, the award ceremony takes place in collaboration with Form/Design Center, thanks to the connection to the prize-winning book.